What’s the Best Way to Start Reading the Bible and Stick With It?

I open the Bible. I get lost fast. Then I quit and feel guilty.

I start reading the Bible by using a simple reading order, reading in short daily sessions, and focusing on one clear question per passage.

I keep this beginner-first. I do not try to “cover everything.” I aim to understand enough to keep going, and I build confidence from small wins.

What Should I Do Before I Start Reading the Bible?

I start well by choosing a readable translation, setting a small daily time, and deciding my goal for reading.
① I pick a translation I can actually read without strain.
② I choose a time I can repeat, like after coffee or before bed.
③ I choose a goal: “learn the story,” “learn Jesus’ teachings,” or “build a daily habit.”
④ I keep a notebook for 1–2 lines, not full pages of notes.

If I skip this setup, I often drift. If I do it, I start.

Which Bible Translation Should I Start With?

I start with a clear, modern translation so I spend energy on meaning, not decoding old language.
Here is the simple way I choose:

1. If I want very readable: I pick a modern, plain-English option.

2. If I want closer to traditional wording: I pick a balanced option.

3. If I want study depth: I pick one with good notes, but I still keep it readable.

I do not fight about “the best” translation at the start. The best one is the one I will read consistently.

What Is the Best Order to Start Reading the Bible?

I usually start in the New Testament because it is easier to follow, then I add the Old Testament with context.
Many beginners start at Genesis because it is first. That can work. But many people get stuck later in long law sections and stop. So I use one of these beginner paths.

① How do I start if I want the core story fast?

I start with a Gospel, then Acts, then a few short letters.
My recommended order:

1. Mark (short, fast pace)

2. Luke (detailed story)

3. Acts (what happens next)

4. James (practical)

5. Ephesians or Philippians (short, clear themes)

This path gives me a clean storyline and a few “how to live” sections without heavy complexity.

② How do I start if I want wisdom and daily life guidance?

I start with Proverbs and a Gospel, because that mix gives short daily readings and a clear foundation.
My simple order:

1. Proverbs (a few verses a day)

2. Mark or John (Gospel)

3. Psalms (optional for emotion and prayer language)

This works well if I want daily habit more than historical study at first.

③ How do I start if I want the whole Bible story over time?

I use a “story-first” plan that keeps me moving without getting stuck.
A beginner-friendly flow:

1. Genesis (key stories)

2. Exodus (big story parts)

3. Mark or Luke

4. Acts

5. Selected Psalms

6. Return to Old Testament later with a guide

I do not try to read every chapter straight through at the beginning. I keep momentum.

How Much Should I Read Each Day?

I start with 10 minutes a day or one short chapter, because small daily reading builds consistency faster than big weekend sessions.
Here are three good starter options:

1. 10 minutes/day (simple and repeatable)

2. 1 chapter/day (if chapters are short)

3. 5–15 verses/day (if attention is low)

I also stop at a natural break. I do not force long sessions, because forcing creates dread.

How Do I Understand What I’m Reading?

I understand the Bible better when I use one simple method: context → meaning → response.
I ask three questions as I read:

1. Context: Who is speaking, and to whom?

2. Meaning: What is the main point in plain words?

3. Response: What does this change in how I think or act today?

That is it. I do not overcomplicate it. I avoid trying to solve every hard verse on day one. If something confuses me, I mark it and move on.

Here is a quick note template I use:

• Passage:

• One-sentence summary:

• One line that stands out:

• One action or reflection:

This keeps reading active without turning it into homework.

How Do I Avoid Feeling Confused or Discouraged?

I avoid discouragement by expecting confusion sometimes, using short guided plans, and letting questions stay open until later.
A beginner brain wants instant clarity. The Bible often needs context. So I set a realistic expectation: I will not “get” everything at first. That is normal.

When I hit a hard section, I do one of these:

1. I switch to a Gospel chapter that day.

2. I read a short commentary note (brief, not a rabbit hole).

3. I ask a trusted person (pastor, group leader, friend).

4. I write my question and keep going.

Consistency matters more than perfect understanding in the first month.

How Do I Build a Bible Reading Habit That Lasts?

I build a lasting habit by tying reading to a daily cue, keeping sessions short, and tracking wins instead of guilt.
My habit rules are simple:

1. Same time or same trigger (coffee, bedtime, lunch).

2. Phone out of reach for 10 minutes.

3. Stop while it still feels doable.

4. Track with a simple checkmark.

If I miss a day, I do not “make up” 3 chapters the next day. I just return to the plan.

On MyShelf.com, I sometimes use BookChallenge to generate a simple 14-day or 30-day reading challenge with small prompts. I keep it light, and I use it to stay consistent, not to pressure myself.

What If I Want to Read the Bible for Study, Not Just Habit?

I study better when I slow down, compare translations, and focus on one theme at a time.
If I want study depth, I do this:

1. I pick one short book (like James or Philippians).

2. I read it once quickly for the big picture.

3. I reread slowly and take notes by section.

4. I track repeated ideas and keywords.

I keep study separate from “daily habit reading.” Habit reading keeps me consistent. Study reading helps me go deeper.

Conclusion

I start reading the Bible by choosing an easy plan, reading a little each day, and asking simple questions that keep me moving.